Shelby Automotive had outgrown its California plant adjacent to Los Angeles International Airport, so production was moved to Ionia, Michigan with the start of the 1968 model year. Mustangs were built at Ford’s Metuchen, New Jersey plant and then shipped by rail to A.O. Smith Corporation, long-time industry supplier, in Michigan for the Shelby touches, final assembly and delivery preparation.

The cars received the standard 1968 Mustang changes, as well as some Shelby-unique upgrades. The GT 500’s 428-cid engine was now rated at 360-hp, with a 735-cfm Holley four-barrel carburetor. The interiors moved upmarket, with vinyl wood trim and a center console that met the dashboard and contained the Stewart-Warner ammeter and oil pressure gauges. Both SportsRoofs (fastbacks) and convertibles had rollbars, and a new steering wheel in the Thunderbird style replaced the 1967 three-spoke item. Transmission and axle ratio choices, however, remained the same.

Some of the unique features of this Drag Car are: Line-x distributor, braided fuel lines, external fuel pressure gauge, large aluminum radiator, removable hood with hood pins, aftermarket tachometer, 140-mph speedometer, clock, AM radio, dual exhaust, Hurst shifter, front disc brakes, Shelby-specific five-spoke wheels and large drag racing rear tires. This particular car has been in Super Ford Magazine. This big-block V-8 is not the only thing that makes this vehicle special, its unique color and black upholstered interior is certainly something to brag about.